I’ve cried a thousand tears and there’s a million more to come.
Almost a fortnight ago, Dozer was hospitalised at SASH with a double lung infection (pneumonia). If he was a spritely young chap, it probably wouldn’t be a big deal. But he’s 13.9 years old, with other medical conditions, and with that comes the reality that is the circle of life.
The initial prognosis was dire, and he went downhill worryingly fast. But my boy is a fighter. Against all odds, he improved, his lungs showed some healing and his vitals were strong. He worked hard on physical rehab and was even discharged on the weekend ………
…….only to be back in ICU a mere 2 hours later with complications. Discharged again….then back in ICU again 10 hours later.
We’re in the final chapter of Life of Dozer and we all know how the story will end. But before we get to the final page, it is my greatest hope that Dozer can come home in good enough condition to have some time to do the things he loves the most – spending time with his favourite people, scavenging around the table, playing with friends at the beach.
And being by my side, 24/7. All the neck rubs in the world. All the hugs, all the kisses, all the pats.
So for the next little while, I will be taking time away from work. JB and my brother Goh are taking charge of both RTE and RTM (our food bank). JB is going to start sharing new recipes and bring some much needed cheer to this website. Hopefully one a week, if he can manage it with the extra business operations responsibilities he’s taken on. He’s been dropping off recipe samples to me at ICU, which I appreciate greatly, even if eating French delicacies next to beeping machines feels slightly surreal.
I can’t promise to share Dozer updates on all his recipes – to be frank, it depends how Dozer is going – but you’ll see some interesting insights into how JB and I work together on recipes remotely. 🙂
Thank you for all the years of love you’ve shown Dozer, for sharing your own fur baby stories, and for making him feel so deeply adored far beyond our little world. I hope to be able to share some more light hearted Life of Dozer tales for the next little while.
Love – Nagi x
Life of Dozer
In honour of the joy Dozer has brought to this website over the years, I can’t finish this post without bringing some cheer to the Life of Dozer section. 🙂 Here he is eating an ice pop – literally just plain ice. It’s his absolute favourite treat these days! Funny how much the bar drops when you’re in hospital, gourmet expectations reduced to frozen tap water and he’s living his best life. ❤️
Nagi, Dozer, This is heart breaking, sending you both love + hugs.
My heart is breaking for both of you. I’ve loved every post of Dozer’s, what an absolutely beautiful companion he has been to you Nagi. You have been a wonderful Mum to him. I know the pain you are going through and Dozer needs you with him now. Blessings and love to you both❤️💔❤️
I have no words. My heart is breaking knowing what comes next. Nagi you and Dozer are loved by so many, may that bring you comfort.
Dozer what an impact you have had on all of us. I still remember lining up at your Book Signing in Southland and the line snakes through forever. Alas, I wasn’t able to get an autograph but was chuffed to leave with a Dozer paw stamp on my book.
Such a beautiful boy i think we will all be crying a thousand tears with you. Hugs xxx
My heart is.with you Nagi and Dozer. I went through something similar in January 2025 and totally understand. I pray for both of you each day and you will always carry him in your heart sending love and prayers to you both I’ve enjoyed your recipes and posts about Dozer- always made my day ❤️🤗🙏
Sending love to you and Dozer. What a joy is it to experience the unconditional love of a dog. And I know he feels the same way about you and the life you’ve given him!
Ah Nagi, my heart is sore with yours. What a great life you’ve given to Dozer. I hope you get to make some great final memories with him. That dog loves you and you’ve honoured that love so much. All my love x
My heart is aching for you and Dozer. Dogs really are the best people. Enjoy these precious moments with your special boy. ❤️
Dear Nagi,
There is nothing worse than having a sick fur baby, so sorry Dozer is so unwell.
We had our 18 yr old poodle cross put to sleep about 4 months ago & it’s still painful.
Wishing you’ll all the best for Dozer.
Warmest wishes,
Bebe
PS. Love your recipes!
Hi Nagi as a fellow Goldie owner who has been through it all before I am sending you and Dozer much love and hugs. It’s the hardest thing. Just take comfort in the fact that you’ve given Dozer the BEST life and he has loved and been loved by you and so many others xxx
Dozer is such a beautiful soul, I am sad to hear he’s not doing well. The love you have for eachother is threaded through the work we get to see from you. I hope you get the many beautiful moments you are hoping for, even if this is a slow good bye.
What a wonderful life Dozer has lived! Take your time to soak it all up we will be waiting for you when you’re ready, Nagi. Make the most of all the snacks Dozer. ❤️❤️
Nagi, your love for Dozer reminds me of mine for the 2 dogs I lost last year. Thank you for sharing your journey as it is a reminder I am not alone. You have given Dozer an amazing life.
We lost our beloved Rosie before Christmas (golden lab) she was 15. We begrudgingly knew it was time and spent the week spoiling her and saying goodbye. Lots of ice cream ate and time at the park. We in still miss her but that week was invaluable for us all. Much love, it’s so hard xx
All my love to Dozer and his family…
What a lucky boy to have such a wonderful Mum. Sending so much love during an incredibly difficult time. But my goodness, he is so loved! 🧡🩷💚🩵💙
Hugs for you both.. our GR girl made it to 13.9 and we have the same photos in hospital so yours brought back so many memories. Memories you will cherish that you have shared with us all.. Dozer the furry child with a huge extended family 🥰
From Ohio, I’m so sorry to hear about Dozer. What a beautiful soul. He is so very loved. 🤍
We lost our beloved Rosie before Christmas (golden lab) she was 15. We begrudgingly knew it was time and spent the week spoiling her and saying goodbye. Lots of ice cream ate and time at the park. We still miss her but that week was invaluable for us all. Much love, it’s so hard xx